§ 43. Mr. P. A. HARRISasked the First Commissioner of Works what is the cost of the various buildings now being erected in St. James's Park; and what number of people they are intended to accommodate?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Sir Alfred Mond)The extension to the Ministry of Shipping will cost 1150 about £27,200, and will accommodate about 800 persons. The building intended for the Admiralty on the old road, near Storey's Gate, will cost about £18,200, and will accommodate about 600 persons. The building for the Ministry of Munitions will cost about £8,400, and will accommodate about 200 persons. The extension to the Ministry of Shipping canteen—which will be used by various Departments—will cost about £4,700, and will provide for 2,000 diners in three relays.
§ Mr. HARRISDoes that include any charge for the land in the centre of London and does it include the cost of the elaborate system of piping and trenches?
§ Sir A. MONDIt does not include any cost for the land, as there is no reason why it should, but it includes all other costs.
§ Colonel ASHLEYMay we take it that these entirely typical buildings will be done away with after the War?
§ Sir A. MONDCertainly, as far as I am concerned.
§ Mr. HARRISIs it proposed to keep an equal space of open land—
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat does not arise out of the question.